South Africa: Ongoing protest and road disruptions along the N2 highway, east of Knysna, May 27

Event

The N2 highway east of Knysna was closed in both directions earlier May 27 due to protest action. Unconfirmed reports indicate that locals are protesting poor service delivery. There is an increase in law enforcement presence in the area. It is not clear when the route will reopen.

Officials may seek to disperse or clear the demonstrators in the coming hours which could trigger clashes. The unrest is likely to result in ground travel and public transport disruptions. Disruptions to freight transport and business operations are possible.

Context

Service delivery protests are common in South Africa, particularly in informal settlements near or adjoining major urban centers. Protests are regularly triggered by socio-economic issues, such as unemployment, lack of access to land, and lack of housing or are in opposition to perceived or actual lack of service delivery, including but not limited to the provision of electricity and water, and municipal or national-level corruption among state officials. Protesters will regularly block major and secondary routes with debris during busy rush hour periods (early morning or evening); however, blockages, particularly to national highways are usually cleared shortly after the start of the event. Some protests can last for several hours; even if a protest ends, it can resume in the coming days if demands are not met. Violence is rare, with officials generally engaged in negotiations to end unrest.

Advice

Avoid the protest. Consider alternative routes around the impact area. Plan for disruptions to both general travel and the transport of freight. Reconfirm the status of the route in the coming days. Heed the directives of the local authorities and monitor local media for updates. Reconfirm all public transport services that operate in or through the area.